Where is Louisiana Located in the United States?

Louisiana is located in the southern region of the United States, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant cities like New Orleans. It is bordered by Texas to the west, Arkansas to the north, and Mississippi to the east, with the Gulf of Mexico to the south providing access to coastal waters. Known for its distinct Creole and Cajun cultures, Louisiana is a blend of French, Spanish, and African influences, reflected in its cuisine, music, and festivals. The postal abbreviation for Louisiana is LA, and the state has a population of approximately 4.6 million people. Covering an area of 52,378 square miles, Louisiana ranks as the 31st largest state by area. The capital of Louisiana is Baton Rouge, while the largest city is New Orleans. Louisiana became the 18th state to join the Union in 1812. The state operates in the Central Time Zone (CT).

Bordering States

Texas

To the west, Louisiana shares a border with Texas, running for approximately 400 miles. This boundary follows natural features such as the Sabine River and Toledo Bend Reservoir, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States. The economic ties between Louisiana and Texas are strong, especially in the energy sector, with both states being major players in oil and natural gas production. Cities like Shreveport, Louisiana, and Beaumont, Texas, have developed strong commercial and industrial connections. The border region is also known for its rich wildlife and outdoor recreational activities, particularly in the forests and wetlands shared by both states.

Arkansas

To the north, Louisiana shares a border with Arkansas, stretching for about 300 miles. This region is characterized by forests, rivers, and farmlands, with both states relying heavily on agriculture, especially in crops like rice, soybeans, and cotton. The Ouachita River flows through this border area, supporting both agriculture and transportation. Economically, the border cities like Monroe, Louisiana, and El Dorado, Arkansas, have strong ties in commerce and industry, particularly in timber and petroleum.

Mississippi

To the east, Louisiana is bordered by Mississippi, with the Mississippi River serving as the primary boundary between the two states. This river is one of the most significant in the U.S., serving as a major transportation route for goods, especially agricultural and industrial products. The cities of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Natchez, Mississippi, are historical and economic hubs along the river. Louisiana and Mississippi share a cultural bond through their deep roots in blues music, southern cuisine, and shared history from the colonial and Civil War eras.

GPS Coordinates

Louisiana is located between 28°55′ N and 33°01′ N latitude and 88°49′ W and 94°03′ W longitude. The state’s southernmost point lies near the Gulf of Mexico, giving it access to vital waterways and coastal areas. This proximity to the Gulf plays a significant role in Louisiana’s climate, economy, and culture, particularly through industries like fishing, oil and gas extraction, and tourism. The state’s central latitude and location in the southeastern United States give it a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters.

The northernmost point of Louisiana is near the town of Junction City, close to the Arkansas border. This region is predominantly rural, with agricultural lands and forests covering much of the landscape. The easternmost point is located along the Mississippi River, where it forms the boundary with Mississippi. This area is home to many of the state’s historical plantations and serves as a key part of Louisiana’s agricultural economy.

Louisiana’s westernmost point is near the town of Logansport, along the Texas border, while its southernmost point lies in Plaquemines Parish, where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico. The state’s western and eastern borders are heavily defined by waterways, which have shaped both its geography and its economy over the centuries.

Levels of Elevation

Louisiana is known for its low-lying terrain, with much of the state situated near sea level. The lowest point in the state is found in New Orleans, where some areas sit as low as 8 feet below sea level. This low elevation, combined with proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, makes the region particularly vulnerable to flooding and hurricanes. The presence of levees and flood control systems is critical for protecting populated areas.

The highest point in Louisiana is Driskill Mountain, located in the northern part of the state near the town of Bienville. Driskill Mountain stands at 535 feet above sea level, making it the highest natural elevation in Louisiana. Despite its modest height compared to mountains in other regions, Driskill Mountain is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities in the region.

Most of Louisiana’s elevation lies between 10 and 60 feet above sea level, particularly in the southern coastal areas where marshlands and swamps dominate the landscape. The slightly higher elevations in the northern part of the state consist of rolling hills and pine forests.

Most Extreme Points of the State

Louisiana’s geographic extremities highlight its diverse terrain, from coastal wetlands to inland forests.

• Northernmost point: The northernmost point of Louisiana is located near Junction City, on the border with Arkansas. This rural area is characterized by forests and agricultural lands, with a climate that is slightly cooler and less humid than the southern parts of the state. The region is known for its timber production and small farming communities.
• Southernmost point: Louisiana’s southernmost point lies in Plaquemines Parish, specifically near Port Eads, where the Mississippi River flows into the Gulf of Mexico. This area is dominated by marshes, swamps, and barrier islands, making it vital for Louisiana’s fishing industry. The southern tip of the state is also prone to erosion and flooding due to its proximity to the Gulf and frequent storms.
• Easternmost point: The easternmost point is located along the Mississippi River, near the town of Venice. This area, like much of southeastern Louisiana, is important for shipping, oil production, and tourism. The region plays a critical role in Louisiana’s economy, serving as a major hub for transportation and industry.
• Westernmost point: The westernmost point of Louisiana is near Logansport, along the Texas border. This area is part of the Sabine River Valley, known for its agricultural and timber industries. The region shares strong economic and cultural ties with neighboring Texas.

Major Mountains

While Louisiana is not known for its mountains, the state does have some elevated regions that are notable for their scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The most well-known elevated area in Louisiana is Driskill Mountain, which, at 535 feet, is the highest point in the state. Located in the northern part of Louisiana near the town of Bienville, Driskill Mountain is part of the Kisatchie Wold, a range of low hills that provide some of the highest elevations in the state.

Driskill Mountain, while modest in height compared to mountains in other parts of the U.S., is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The mountain is located in a forested area with trails that wind through pine woods, offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the low-lying wetlands and bayous that dominate much of southern Louisiana.

The northern region of Louisiana, known as North Louisiana Hill Country, features other small hills and ridges that provide elevated terrain in contrast to the flat coastal plains of the southern part of the state. The Kisatchie National Forest, located in central Louisiana, also contains rolling hills and ridges, providing a scenic landscape for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. While not mountainous, the forested hills of this region are an important part of Louisiana’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Major Rivers and Lakes

Louisiana’s major rivers and lakes are vital to its economy, culture, and environment, with waterways playing a crucial role in the state’s agriculture, industry, and transportation. The Mississippi River is the most significant river in Louisiana, running along the state’s eastern border before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. This river serves as a major transportation route for goods, especially agricultural products, oil, and natural gas. The cities of Baton Rouge and New Orleans are located along the Mississippi, making it an economic lifeline for the state. The river also supports Louisiana’s famous wetlands and delta regions, which are important for fishing, wildlife, and tourism.

Another important river is the Red River, which flows through the western part of Louisiana. The Red River is a major waterway for shipping and agriculture, supporting the economies of cities like Shreveport and Alexandria. The river’s fertile floodplains are used for growing crops like cotton and soybeans, making it an important agricultural resource for the region.

Louisiana is also home to several major lakes, the largest of which is Lake Pontchartrain, located near New Orleans. This brackish lake, connected to the Gulf of Mexico, is a key part of the state’s ecosystem and provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and tourism. The Causeway Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world, spans Lake Pontchartrain, connecting the northern and southern parts of the New Orleans metropolitan area.

Toledo Bend Reservoir, located on the border with Texas, is one of the largest man-made lakes in the U.S. This lake is an important source of hydroelectric power and provides opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. Toledo Bend is a popular destination for anglers, known for its bass fishing tournaments and scenic beauty.